Quentin Townsend arrested - by Chris MunsonAmerican Basketball Association Chief Operating Officer Quentin Townsend has been arrested on criminal charges of fraud and forgery. The arrest arrives in the wake of a civil suit filed by Jayhawk Sports in September, alleging that Townsend defrauded potential investors in a scheme that would have brought an NBA Development League team to the Atlanta metro area.

Townsend was arrested Friday afternoon while attending a divorce hearing in Gwinnett County, Georgia. He was awaiting transfer to Forsyth County where the criminal charges were filed.

Townsend's Gwinnett County MugshotThe civil suit alleged that Townsend tried to obtain a D-League team for the city of Atlanta, but was turned down by the league. Townsend then allegedly continued to solicit funds for the franchise from Jayhawk Sports in the amount of $200,000. The suit further alleges Townsend forged documents claiming that the D-League was still interested and actively pursuing Townsend and his group, saying they came from the NBA.

Chris Munson is a freelance sportswriter based in Jacksonville, Florida. Chris is the former Sports Director for ESPN Radio Vermont and has written for Our Sports Central, US Basket, d3football.com, the Vermont Guardian, Vermont Times and Varsity Magazine.

After Alen Abaz resignation Bosna ASA BH Telecom signed a new coach on Monday. The new coach is a well-known name, Vlada Vukoicic, former FMP, Hemofarm, Oestende coach who's made a name for himself by working with young players and achieving great results along with developing those young players. Bosna ASA BH Telecom hopes that Vukoicic can repeat the same kind of success in Sarajevo. However, they forget that Vukoicic had the best young players in the region when he won the Adriatic league with FMP. Similar thing with Hemofarm. No doubt that Vukoicic is a good coach. It's fortunate for Bosna that he left Oestende after decent achievements with this club. However, new coach cannot fix the reason Abaz left the team last week. Simply because Bosna's 'young' players have been sitting on the bench for 5-6 years before this season. It's hard to expect that players who until this season sat out whole games for several seasons can carry the load in the Adriatic league, let alone win Bosnian championship and Cup. While former Bosna director used to bring several Americans and washed out players from Serbia for the last 4 years Bosna young players have been watching others play. Since nobody becomes a player by sitting on thebench it's clear that they cannot achieve goals that Bosna has this season. It's simply not fair to Abaz, new coach Vukoicic and players born 1986 and later that Bosna's management wants to go with young team now instead of five years ago. Management, however, forgets that Bosna's 'young' players are not so young any more. Emir Zimic (217-C-86) has been sitting on the bench for three years prior to getting seriously injured and missing most of the last two seasons, Amar Suljagic (213-C-88) has only played garbage time for the first team if he was among twelve players at the first place, Muhamed Pasalic (190-PG-87) started getting a serious playing time last season, played well only to see Bosna management bringing two Americans on his position prior to the play-offs. Let's recall that Bosna qualified for the ULEB Cup 1/16-finals with Pasalic as a back up point guard. Who else is considered young player in Bosna? Of course, Bozo Djurasovic who's been 'young' for the last five years. With almost 22 years of age Djurasovicis still waiting to get an opportunity to play more than 5 minutes in a close game. Put aside a fact that he's been loaned to Vogosca in A1 league, but with his height of 199cm he has had to play power forward position although his natural position is clearly at small forward. The only one of those younger players who got almost a serious chance to play is Suad Sehovic (195-G-87) although there have been long stretches when he barely saw any action. Sehovic is a fighter and he has been used byprevious Bosna coaches for special defensive assignments, not to score, not to carry the load, but as a role player. Now, he is supposed to be one of the main pillars of new Bosna. So, Bosna management considers young players all those younger than 23 years of age although they should show their worth by that point. In Bosna, players are young till that treshhold. If they don't deliver after reaching the treshhold they got kicked out because they 'have not been working hard', they 'have not been focused on basketball', at the end 'they've never beengifted enough', etc...Let's get something straight: we're not talking about a young team made of Miro Raduljica, Milan Macvan,Boban Marjanovic, Vladimir Dasic,Mladen Jeremic and other top NBA prospects from Adriatic league teams. We are talking about gifted players who will never achieve their full potential simply because they've been warming Bosna's bench for way too long. They are getting a chance that they should have gotten four-five years ago. Thus, Bosna management is missing on generation. Now is the time for Eldin Camdzic (192-G-90), Aldin Klinac (211-C-90), Aldin Majstoric (198-G-90), Nebojsa Andjelic (200-G-91) and couple other players, but according to Bosna their turn will be in 3 years. Of course, they're too young and they are supposed to spend next two-three years on the sidelines at practice watching their teammates play five on five, not to mention official games. Zimic, Pasalic, Suljagic, Sehovic had to start playing for the first team at age of 17-18, not 21-23. Now, those are players who will become good, but will never be what they could have been. At the same time their counterparts from FMP, Buducnost, Hemofarm have been already playing 3-4 seasons in strong leagues and European Cups. Bosna management has to realize that it has slowed down development process of more than a dozenof very skilled players (i.e. Does anyone recalls 12 extremely gifted players that RIN sent to Bosna 5 years ago? All of them have been sacrificed so that one of them can be sold for big money). Bosna has not paid enough attention to generation '86-'90. Just one example: Zimic has asked his club to provide him with a strengthening coach and a program. After waiting several months, this player has had to pay that 'luxury' out of his own pocket. The management also has to realize that new coach can't bring a title and Cup by himself after they (Management) and previous coaches with much stronger teams have lost two BiH championship titles and three Cups in four years. Every basketball fan can see that Bosna has no starting point guard and starting center, two pieces you start building any team from. Zimic, Suljagic and Klinac should get more playing time, but none of them is ready to carry the load at center, Pasalic is a very good point guard but started playing too late and he can be a solid backup in a team that wants to win Bosnian championship and Cup. Camdzic is a combo guard who should start getting some playing time and start getting PT now when he is stillreally young, not young according to Bosna's criterion. By now it's obvious that Djordjevic and Stanley Burrell are not reinforcements Bosna needs. They remind of an army of Serbian and American players brought to Bosna in the last four seasons only to be replaced at the mid-season so that couple people can collect extra profit by taking agents' provisions twice in one season. Ivanovic and Vucurovic are reinforcements that Bosna needs. However, winning a title and Cup without bringing players at center and point guard positions will remain only a wish with this roster. Stories that Bosna has no money are for fans, coaches and players only. Only few people from top Bosna management control money flow in the club. Last year there was enoughmoney in the budget to pay four Americans $62,000 every month! Let's remind that Bavcic also had a big contract, Dzenan Rahimic hasn't played for free, Seid Hajric neither. This season Bosna management has admitted that budget is more than 3 million KM although it's even more than that. Bosna has been actively seeking center and couple guards whole Summer willing to pay even more than Lance Williams last season. All of a sudden, a couple days before the season started, managementhas decided not to bring necessary reinforcements at key positions and left (now former) coach Alen Abaz and fans wondering why shuch abrupt strategy change. Thus, if Bosna provides more playing time to young players, brings two strong reinforcements, gets rid of Djordjevic and Burell, Bosna has a great chance to accomplish both goals for this season: win both domestic titles and develop its younger players. Otherwise, not even an excellent coach like Vukoicic can accomplish such a miracle.

Adriatic-League Round: 7 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsFMP - Partizan 66-69Current Adriatic league champion made against FMP on the road staying the only undefeated team after 7 rounds. Uros Tripkovic top-scored for the winners with 18 points. Stephane Lasme and Milenko Tepic followed adding 12 points apiece while Lasme had 10 more rebounds. FMP got 19 points from Dragan Labovic dropping on 2-5.

U.Olimpija - Cibona 67-72Cibona continued with good performance while Slovenian champion still looks for the right shape. This time Vedran Vukusic was the best in visiting team scoring 18 points. Marko Milic and Vlado Ilievski netted 17 points apiece for the loosing side. Both teams entered into this round with the same score 3-3.

Vojvodina - KK Split 70-72Tight road victory by Split for 4-3 in Adriatic league. Eddie Shannon was a key player pouring in 18 points for the visitors. Vojvodina stays on 1 win from the first round despite pretty good Marko Pekovic, who had 20 points and 7 boards.

Zadar - Krka 90-79Fifth win for the Croatian champ and at the same time fourth defeat for the Slovenians. Macedonian center Todor Gecevski shined for the hosts registering 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Marlon Garnett had one point less than him. Smiljan Pavic contributed 21 points and 9 boards in Krka.

KK Zagreb - Hemofarm 76-85Extremely important road win for Hemofarm, who improved its score on 5-2. On the other hand, Zagreb stays with just one victory so far. Young prospect Stefan Markovic paced Hemofarm adding 18 points and 5 rebounds. Milan Macvan was behind him with 16 points and 8 boards. Vladan Vukosavljevic also was good scoring 15 while point guard MIljan Pakovic netted 14 points. Jakov Vladovic and Ante Tomic combined 44 points for the hosts. Tomic had 13 more rebounds.

Buducnost - Helios 90-86Montenegrin champion celebrated against Helios in Podgorica mostly owing to Vladimir Micov, who collected 20 points and 6 rebounds. Nicholas Jacobson was better than the others in Helios with 21 points. Buducnost is on 5-2 now while Helios has 1-6.

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AUSTRALIA

NBL Round: 8 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsBlaze - Crocodiles 115-106Gold Coast Blaze finally grabbed the first one this season outplaying Townsville Crocodiles at the Gold Coast Convention Centre. Shane Heal was the key player for the Blaze as he collected 26 points and 7 assists. The Crocs got 23 points and 8 boards from Rosell Ellis dropping on 4-5.

Breakers - 36ers 86-96Great road victory for the 36ers mostly owing to Mark Tyndale, Luke Schenscher and Adam Ballinger, which combined 63 points together. Tony Ronaldson and Kirk Penney had 47 for the loosing side. The 36ers are now on 4-5 while the Breakers slipped on 7-3.

Spirit - Tigers 80-98Easy win for the Tigers, seventh one this season. On the other side, the Spirit faced with 8th defeat in 12 appearances. Chris Anstey shined for the winners netting 20 points and grabbing impressive 17 boards. Julian Khazzouh had 16 points and 5 rebounds but for the hosts.

36ers - Taipans 70-71Thriller win for the Taipans, which improved their score in NBL on 6-5. 36ers slipped one more time so they currently have 4-6. Aaron Grabau top-scored for the Taipans with 17 points. Ian Crosswhite also was great adding 16 points and 8 boards. Adam Ballinger registered 17 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts.

Wildcats - Crocodiles 115-787-6 for the Wildcats and 4-6 for the Crocodiles after this game. Shawn Redhage was better than the others in Perth collecting 18 points and 9 boards. The Crocs got 17 points and 5 rebounds from Rosell Ellis, but it is their second defeat in just few days.

Tigers - Breakers 84-86After home defeat vs 36ers, New Zealand Breakers made it against the Tigers as visitors. Kirk Penney was on a great level pouring in 25 points. Chris Anstey delivered 19 points including 11 rebounds for the loosing side. Both teams had 7-3 before this round.

Dragons - Blaze 95-83As it was expected, the South Dragons outplayed GBS jumping on 9-2 in NBL. GBC stays on 1 win from 3 days ago. Mark Worthington shined for the hosts registering 18 points and 8 rebounds. Justin Bowen netted 26 points for the Blaze also having 8 more rebounds.

In Elite division, TU/Rock ended ASK Riga's unbeaten record, defeating Latvian side 84:69 and moving up to the 3rd place in Elite Division standings. Asko Paade (206-F-84) made the best game of his career, scoring 19 points, including a 11-points frenzy, which started in the closing minutes of 1st quarter. Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY), finally recovered from the ankle injury, made 4/7 three-pointers. In 4th qrt, Tein fired up the home crowd with his 4th triple, making it 61:56. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) and Paade followed and Rock went ahead 68:56 with 6 minutes left. A three-pointer by Brewer took the guests within 6 points but a dunk by Paade and a crucial three-pointer by Gert Kullamae (198-G/F-71) with 2.19 left put Rock up 77:65 and the home crowd cheered with a standing ovations until the end of the game.Paade led the hosts with 19 points. Beard added 18 pts + 12 rbs, Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) 16 pts + 10 assists and Tein 15 pts. Brewer led ASK with 21 pts but he made only 4/8 FT as ASK was only 13/26 from the FT line.

Oostende - Aalstar 66-78Despite many changes over the past 10 days, Base BC Oostende faced with 5th consecutive defeat in D1. At the same time it is the fifth win for Aalstar, who now has 5-1. Mo Charlo paced Aalstar to victory adding 17 points and 8 boards. Stephane Pelle also was good stopping on 15 points and 10 rebs. Rashid Atkins and Nick Fazekas scored 16 points each for the loosing side.

Verviers-Pep. - Charleroi 62-87Easy win for Charleroi, who remained the only undefeated team so far (6-0). The team of head coach Drazen Anzulovic got the most from Wes Wilkinson, 17 points and 7 boards. Marcus Dove contributed 19 points and 9 rebounds for Pepinster, but it was not enough for the second joy (1-6).

Gent - Leuven 75-86Another victory by the visiting team and this time it was Spotter Leuven. It is third victory for Leuven in 6 appearances, mostly owing to DeMario Anderson and James J.J. Miller, which combined 38 points. Kavin Melson was a way better than the others in Optima Gent (1-5).

After Alen Abaz resignation, Bosna ASA BH Telecom signed a new coach on Monday. The new coach is a well-known name, Vlada Vukoicic, former FMP, Hemofarm, Oestende coach who's made a name for himself by working with young players and achieving great results along with developing those young players. Bosna ASA BH Telecom hopes that Vukoicic can repeat the same kind of success in Sarajevo. Finally, but...they forget that Vukoicic had the best young players in the region when he won the Adriatic league with FMP. Players who've been playing strong games from their early age. Similar thing with Hemofarm. No doubt that Vukoicic is a good coach. It's fortunate for Bosna that he left Oestende after decent achievements with this club. However, new coach cannot fix the reason Abaz left the team last week. Simply because Bosna's 'young' players have been sitting on the bench for 5-6 years before this season. It's hard to expect that players who until this season sat out whole games for several seasons can carry the load in the Adriatic league, let alone win Bosnian championship and Cup. While former Bosna director used to bring several Americans and washed out players from Serbia for the last 4 years Bosna young players have been watching games from the bench or even stands. Since nobody becomes a player by sitting on thebench it's clear that they cannot achieve goals that Bosna has this season. It's simply not fair to Abaz, new coach Vukoicic and players born 1986 and later that Bosna's management wants to go with young team under pressure of winning double title. Trouble is also that Bosna doesn't want to give a chance to 17 or 18-year old players. No, they want to go with 22-year old players while 17 and 18-year old kids can only watch. Their time shall come...in five years or so. Management forgets that Bosna's 'young' players are not so young any more. Emir Zimic (217-C-86) has been sitting on the bench for three years prior to getting seriously injured and missing most of the last two seasons, Amar Suljagic (213-C-88) has only played garbage time for the first team if he was among twelve players at the first place, Muhamed Pasalic (190-PG-87) started getting a serious playing time last season, played well only to see Bosna management bringing two Americans on his position prior to the play-offs. Let's recall that Bosna qualified for the ULEB Cup 1/16-finals with Pasalic as a back up point guard. Who else is considered young player in Bosna? Of course, Bozo Djurasovic who's been 'young' for the last five years. With almost 22 years of age Djurasovicis still waiting to get an opportunity to play more than 5 minutes in a close game. Put aside a fact that he's been loaned to Vogosca in A1 league, but with his height of 199cm he has had to play power forward position although his natural position is clearly at small forward. The only one of those younger players who got almost a serious chance to play is Suad Sehovic (195-G-87) although there have been long stretches when he barely saw any action. Sehovic is a fighter and he has been used byprevious Bosna coaches for special defensive assignments, not to score, not to carry the load, but as a role player. Now, he is supposed to be one of the main pillars of new Bosna. So, Bosna management considers young players all those who are 21-23 years of age although they should show their worth by that point. In Bosna, players are young till that treshhold. If they don't deliver after reaching the treshhold they got kicked out because they 'have not been working hard', they 'have not been focused on basketball', at the end 'they've never beengifted enough', etc...Let's get something straight: we're not talking about a young team made of Miro Raduljica, Milan Macvan,Boban Marjanovic, Vladimir Dasic,Mladen Jeremic and other top prospects from Adriatic league teams. We are talking about gifted players who will never achieve their full potential simply because they've been warming Bosna's bench for way too long. They are getting a chance that they should have gotten four-five years ago. Thus, Bosna management is missing on generation. Now is the time for Eldin Camdzic (192-G-90), Aldin Klinac (211-C-90), Aldin Majstoric (198-G-90), Nebojsa Andjelic (200-G-91) and couple other players, but according to Bosna their turn will be in 3 years. Of course, they're too young and they are supposed to spend next two-three years on the sidelines at practice watching their teammates play five on five, not to mention official games. Zimic, Pasalic, Suljagic, Sehovic had to start playing for the first team at age of 17-18, not 21-23. Now, those are players who will become good, but will never be what they could have been. At the same time their counterparts from FMP, Buducnost, Hemofarm have been already playing 3-4 seasons in strong leagues and European Cups. Bosna management has to realize that it has slowed down development process of more than a dozenof very skilled players (i.e. Does anyone recalls 12 extremely gifted players that RIN sent to Bosna 5 years ago? All of them have been sacrificed so that one of them can be sold for big money). Bosna has not paid enough attention to generation '86-'91. Just one example: Zimic has asked his club to provide him a body strengthening plan and program. After waiting for several months, this player has had to pay that 'luxury' out of his own pocket. The management also has to realize that new coach can't bring a title and Cup by himself after they (i.e. management) and coaches with much stronger and expensive teams have lost two BiH championship titles and three Cups in the last four years. Every basketball fan can see that Bosna has no starting point guard and starting center, two pieces you start building any team from. Zimic, Suljagic and Klinac should get more playing time, but none of them is ready to carry the load at center, Pasalic is a very good point guard but started playing too late and he can be a solid backup in a team that wants to win Bosnian championship and Cup. Camdzic is a combo guard who should start getting some playing time and start getting PT now when he is stillreally young, not young according to Bosna's criterion. By now it's obvious that Djordjevic and Stanley Burrell are not reinforcements Bosna needs. They remind of an army of Serbian and American players brought to Bosna in the last four seasons only to be replaced at the mid-season so that couple people can collect extra profit by taking agents' provisions twice in one season. Ivanovic and Vucurovic are reinforcements that Bosna needs. Winning a title and Cup without bringing players at center and point guard positions will remain only a wish with this roster. If Bosna really wants to give chance to young players there shouldn't be a burden of winning trophies. Otherwise, Bosna shall bring two quality players and then request from players to win championship and Cup. Stories that Bosna has no money hold no water. Only few people from top Bosna management control money flow in the club. Last year there was enoughmoney in the budget to pay four Americans $62,000 every month! Let's remind that Bavcic also had a big contract, Dzenan Rahimic hasn't played for free, Seid Hajric neither. This season Bosna management has admitted that budget is more than 3 million KM although it's more than that. Bosna has been actively seeking center and couple guards whole Summer willing to pay even more than Lance Williams last season. All of a sudden, a couple days before the season started, managementhas decided not to bring necessary reinforcements at key positions and left (now former) coach Alen Abaz and fans wondering what's going on. So, if Bosna provides more playing time to young players, brings two strong reinforcements, gets rid of Djordjevic and Burell, Bosna has a great chance to accomplish both goals for this season: win domestic titles and develop its younger players. Otherwise, not even an excellent coach like Vukoicic can accomplish such a miracle.

The first round of a new A1 season begins today. Favorites on the paper are Celik from Zenica and Triland from Sarajevo. Let's remind that Celik withdrew from Bosnian D1 only because of financial issues. Thus, team from Zenica cannot be considered a 2nd Division team like others. Triland, on the other hand has brought some big names this season and looks like a team that belongs to D1 rather than D2 league. Esmir Guzonjic, Muamer Taletovic, Emir Halimic, Mirza Dzubur, Muris Memic, Ognjen Bravo, Mirza Smajic, Rijad Jamakovic and others make a team that would be in the middle of the standings in D1. Other teams have reinforced their rosters as well and this year's A1 might be the strongest ever. First round schedule:

After five rounds Sloboda Dita and Zrinjski are leaders. Sloboda Dita is likely to stay alone at the top of the standings. Namely, Sloboda plays at home vs. underdog Vitez and Zrinjski is off this round. D1 league, 6th round schedule:

Levski broke losing series, back to winning way - by Valentin AnguelovLevski came back to winning ways after two straight losses, one from Euroins Cherno More in NBL and the other one from Rilski Sportist in BIBL and defeated Sliven away 77-97. This was last test for The Blues before their game with champion Lukoil Academic this coming friday in Hristo Botev Hall. In Yambol Levski played without two of the team's players - Marcus Hall and Vasil Evtimov.

The hosts started strong and took 10-0 lead. The play of the hosts wasn't that good and for the first ten minutes they managed to score only 11 points compared to 28 for their visitors.During the second quarter Sliven made a run 6-0 and managed to cut some of the deficit.

After 15 minutes of play the difference went down to 12 points. With good defense the hosts managed to keep themselves in the game. Both teams were exchanging baskets and to the end of the first half Levski took a 52-37 lead.

The third quarter started very strong for Levski and quickly took a 20-point lead. Sliven found it hard to make baskets at that point and only the good play of Todor Tenev and good shooting from the three point line by Lawrence Sharett kept Sliven from being embarassed. Near the end of the quarter the visitors played more relaxed and the hosts cut the deficit to 12, 57-69.

In the final quarter Sliven tried to come back in the game but only managed to cut it to 10. In the final minutes Titi Papazov let some of the reserves in play but Sliven didn't succeed to cut more of their deficit and lost again.

The strongest for Levski in this game was Nikolay Varbanov who finished with 28 points and 14 rebounds, despite playing with 4 fouls for most of the time. Asen Velikov finished with 17 points while Stefan Georgiev also posted a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds for only 20 minutes on court.

The players of Rilski Sportist didn't succeed in their attempt to defeat Euroins Cherno More and lost for third time in the regular season. The players of Aleksandar Todorov lost 67-85 in Hristo Borisov Hall in Varna.

The game was even at the start and both teams were making mistakes in the first minutes. The lead was changing a lot of teams in those moments and the lead wasn't more than 2-3 points for either side. The good moments for the hosts came at the end of the first quarter when Plamen Aleksiev scored a 3-pointer just seconds before the end and gave six point lead to his team, 23-17.

The game continued in the same tempo but thanks to Corey McIntosh in attack and Simo Tsenov in defense the hosts took an 11-point lead. The visitors managed to cut it to 7 after triple by Belberov with 5 seconds to go in the first half.

After the break the game continued to be very intensed. Euroins Cherno More was trying to pull away and at times the visitors did succeed in cutting their deficit to minimum. Simeon Tsenov proved that he deserves more playing time while Aleksandar Yanev was penetrating through the Samokov defense as their team was ahead 59-49 after three quarters.

During the last one the hosts were inspired and wished more the win and managed to make their lead untouchable. They won all the quarters and at the end won by 18 points being happy from their work in the game.

Another very good game had Corey McIntosh who finished with 30 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists. Simeon Tsenov also came in very good as he made 15 points and 12 rebounds. Aleksandar Yanev scored 19 for the winners.

Travis Peterson again had a very fine game for Rilski Sportist as he ended with 19 points and 16 rebounds. Lilov scored 16 while Papic added 15 for the visitors who surely missed the injured players Bogdan Boev and their captain Aleksandar Gruev.

Edgar Moreno did a little bit of everything leading Norte with 32 pts to win the game five of 2008 Federation Cup finals.Bucaros played a good first half but the fuel was not enough to challenge Norte in the second, Monty Wilson who was cold in the first half went on fire in the second , while Bucaros Miguel Marriaga had a dark night in the ofensive side.Again Carlos Rogers was the master of the paint , the veteran player was carefull avoiding fall in foul problems and in the second half with his rebounding and hustling made the diference for Norte among the big men.Bucaros Rogers Washington and Marcus Fleming took the team wight on the ofensive side, but Flemings defensive night was not the best, Fleming leaded Bucaros with 26pts including 6 three pointers.At the end the diference for Norte was on the small things that togoether makes the hustling, i mean defensive effort with lots of help, good boxouts in the rebounds and great execution of the ofensive moves.Norte is the first fourth seeded that finishes wining the Cup, Norte defeatd the first seeded Arrieros in seven games on the semifinals and Bucaros the second seeded in five games on the finals.Julio Toro coaching made a great diference, its team had two main key facts on the season, the first one was the conditioning, its players was always ready to run on defense and on ofense making a very good transition, and made few turnovers always runing the ofensive to find the weak point of the defense and the open man, Toro show great confidence in his bench players, making Alvaro Contreras and John Hernandez specially solid contributors, Toro also found in Edgar Moreno a world class point guard.Congratulations to the Norte de Santander team, all its players , coaching staff and directives.

Norte de Santander - E. Moreno 32pts

Bucaros Freskaleche - M. Fleming 26pts

EDGAR MORENO - LATINBASKET FINALS MVP - by Victor GarciaThe good players can improve each season, Edgar Moreno is more than a good one, Edgar improve this season his perimeter shooting making him in one of the best all around guards in Southamerica, this year with the Norte de Santander team Edgar made everything scoring, assisting, reboundig and playing great defense, in other words Edgar was the leader of Norte.In the finals beyond the numbers Edgar play as a champion and at the end he made champion his team making him our MVP.Latinbasket also want to congratulate Carlos Rogers for his great comeback to the sport, Rogers was a key player for Norte putting on the floor experience, hustling, knowledge and desire on victory, really a role model for many players in the CupEdgar Moreno (191-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: UTEP)

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CYPRUS

Etha-Signs Marco Car - by Michael AristidouInterCollege Etha Engomis signs croatian .Marko Car (188-G/F-85) Last seazon Car played in Aigaleo Greece. Marco also started his carrer in Sanac Karlovac (A2) and in seazon 2006-07 moved to KK Split. Last team before going to Greece was Osijek 2006. From Aigaleo left in Octomber 2008. In other news we had one player released from Omonia. Mike King (201-F-74, college: Ill.-Chicago) was released after Renos Pitallis suggestion. Omonia is looking for one center.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

BK Nova Hut Ostrava sign Shawan Robinson - by Eurobasket

BK Nova Hut Ostrava signed 25-year old American guard Shawan Robinson (187-G-83, college: Clemson). Robinson played most recently at Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany), but left last month. He spent last season at LTi Giessen 46ers also in Germany, where his stats were not such impressive, just 3.1ppg, 0.9rpg, 0.8apg. Also the team from Frankfurt was not amazed with his performance as this season he scored just 2 points in 5 league games, spending most of time on a deep bench. His first pro season (06-07) was his best so far when at British Newcastle Eagles he averaged 15.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 1.4apg and 1.4spg, leading his team to league championship and cup semifinals. In his first game for NH Ostrava he found easily his tempo scoring 21 points in 35 minutes.

In Elite division, TU/Rock ended ASK Riga's unbeaten record, defeating Latvian side 84:69 and moving up to the 3rd place in Elite Division standings. Asko Paade (206-F-84) made the best game of his career, scoring 19 points, including a 11-points frenzy, which started in the closing minutes of 1st quarter. Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY), finally recovered from the ankle injury, made 4/7 three-pointers. In 4th qrt, Tein fired up the home crowd with his 4th triple, making it 61:56. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) and Paade followed and Rock went ahead 68:56 with 6 minutes left. A three-pointer by Brewer took the guests within 6 points but a dunk by Paade and a crucial three-pointer by Gert Kullamae (198-G/F-71) with 2.19 left put Rock up 77:65 and the home crowd cheered with a standing ovations until the end of the game.Paade led the hosts with 19 points. Beard added 18 pts + 12 rbs, Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) 16 pts + 10 assists and Tein 15 pts. Brewer led ASK with 21 pts but he made only 4/8 FT as ASK was only 13/26 from the FT line.

In the most intriguing game, two bronze-medal contenders Kuremaa and TTU met each other. Suprisingly, the game was anything but tense as TTU led for the whole game and won firmly 72:82 as with a quarter to play, it was 47:75, already! Joosep Toome (202-F-85) had 19+11rb, Joosep Pokla (198-G-86) and Illimar Pilk (195-F-88) added 13. For Kuremaa, Ando Tagamets (200-F-79) scored 16 pts.TTU outrebounded the opponents 41:30 and had a winning percentage of 50% versus opponents' 38%.

Dylan PAGE has signed in Pau-Orthez - by Gregory CaruAfter 5 games,Pau-Orthez is obliged to do something because of his slow start(0v 5d).The club has decided to cut Hiram Fuller(5,8ppg 4,4rpg)not really good since the beginning of the season and has signed the Forward,Dylan Page.Page is a smart player with good mentality,good moves ,who knows very well the European Basketball.Last year he played in ACB,one of the best championship in Europe, for 13,6ppg 4,9rbs with Granada and before he has played in Greece 2 seasons.This is the last solution for Pau-Orthez who tries,this year,to stay in Pro A after has been the better team in France in 90's.Dylan Page (204-F-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee)

ProA Round: 6 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsASVEL - Chalon 77-68ASVEL outplayed Chalon in the opening game of Round 6, which was played on Friday night. Experienced Laurent Foirest was totally the best player in ASVEL draining 24 points for 27 minutes (6 triples). At the same time he also had 5 more rebounds and 4 assists. Darnell Harris contributed 23 points for Chalon. Both teams entered into this round with 3-2.

Besancon - Strasbourg 74-72Besancon grabbed tiny win against Strasbourg at home, thus both teams have the same score now 3-3. Tommy Gunn led the hosts with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Strasbourg had 4 players which added 12 points apiece.

Pau - Vichy 66-80It was a game between two winless teams after 5 games. Vichy was the one who made it and it happened mostly owing to David Teague, who poured in 20 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Andre Emmett shined in Pau-Orthez contributing 26 points.

Le Havre - Roanne 86-88Very exciting game decided in over time. 5-1 for Roanne and 1-5 for Le Havre after this round. Taj Gray demonstrated wonderful performance for the winning team draining 36 points and pulling down 9 rebounds. Bingo Merriex had 21 points and 13 boards in Le Havre.

Orleans - Gravelines 76-89Comfortable victory for Gravelines thanks to Tony Skinn and his 27 points. At the same time Skinn dished out 6 more assists. Brian Greene collected 18 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Gravelines and Orleans had 4-1 before this game.

Cholet - Nancy 77-88Nancy outplayed Cholet on the road jumping on 5-1. On the other side, the hosts faced with 4th defeat this season. Lamayne Wilson netted 22 points for the winners while Kevin Seraphin had 17 in Cholet.

Hyeres-Toulon - Rouen 59-48Hyeres-Toulon celebrated vs Rouen in a low-scoring game improving on 3-3. Darrell Tucker shined for the hosts with 19 points and 12 boards. Rouen, who stays on just one win so far, didn't have any player with double digits in scoring.

ProB Round: 8 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsClermont - Le Portel 87-84Clermont was better than Le Portel at home celebrating fifth victory in Pro B so far. On the other side, Le Portel faced with second failure dropping on 6-2. Errick Craven shined for the hosts collecting 22 points and 8 assists. Benoit Gillet was behind him with 20 while Erroyl Bing scored one point less. Le Portel got the most from Willie Jenkins, who netted 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds.

Maurienne - St.Vallier 87-85Maurienne escaped with a tiny home win against Saint-Vallier, thus both teams have the same score now 4-4. Chris Dunn paced Maurienne to victory adding 22 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists. Sean Barnette also had 22 points but for the loosing side.

Brest - Quimper 65-63Another tight win for the hosts. This time it was Brest, who jumped on 5-3. Quimper remains the only winless team after 8 rounds. Sherman Gay was totally the best player in Brest nailing 23 points including 11 boards. Moses Sonko top-scored for Quimper with 15 points.

Paris-Levall. - Bourg 73-64There is no more undefeated teams in Pro B after Paris-Levallois crushed Bourg on Friday night. Both sides are currently on top of the standings with great record 7-1. Adolphe Michel Jean-Baptiste was the key player for the winning team registering double-double, 14 points and 11 rebounds. Prosper Karangwa and Rodney Elliott had 13 points apiece. Boakai Lalugba drained 19 points for Bourg.

Charleville - Nantes 85-69Easy win for Charleville, who now has 5-3 in Pro B. Its rival Nantes dropped on 3-5. Chris Davis led the hosts netting 17 points including 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Marshalle Phillips was behind him with 16 points and 7 boards. Vernard Hollins contributed 18 points and 9 rebounds for Nantes.

St.Quentin - St-Etienne 65-72It was a game between two teams with 2 wins and 5 defeats after 7 rounds. Saint-Etienne grabbed very important one thanks to Nate Carter and his 21 points and 10 boards. Shaun Fein contributed 17 points for the hosts.

Boulazac - Evreux 87-72Second win for Boulazac and at the same time third failure for Evreux. Philippe Da Silva, Ronnie Taylor and Sambou Traore combined 59 points for the winners. Nicholas Pope and Abdoulaye N'Diaye had 44 pts together in Evreux.

Antibes - Poitiers 84-72Another team with 2 wins in Pro B became Antibes. Yann Mollinari was the key player for the hosts draining 19 points and dishing out 6 assists for 34 minutes. The team of head coach Rudy Nelhomme got 14 points from Lamine Kante, but it was not enough for the 6th joy.

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GERMANY

ProA Round: 7 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsChemnitz - Jena 56-75Jena claimed the fourth win in the season as they prevailed against Chemnitz 75:56 on the road. Drew Williamson came up with 20 points to lead Jena. Alexander Seggelke knocked down 18 points in the win. Torvoris Baker answered with 13 points for Chemnitz in the loss.

Kirchheim - Karlsruhe 73-95Karlsruhe improved to 4-3 record as they held off Kirchheim 95:73 away from home. Peter Krautwald team dominated in this one and posted a well-deserved win at the end. Rouven Roessler fired 21 points for the visitors. Justin Howard contributed 17 points and 13 boards in the winning effort. Adam Baumann replied with 14 points and 9 rebounds for Kirchheim as they slipped at 3-4 record.

Bayreuth - Lich 107-53Bayreuth celebrated the sixth win in seven games and remained at the helm of the league ladder. Today they punched Lich 107:53 at home court. Seven players scored in double digits for Bayreuth. Dan Oppland led the charge with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Gary Hamilton contributed 16 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Lich got 12 points from Benjamin Lischka.

teckproBraves - Heidelberg 85-67TeckproBraves eased past Heidelberg 85:67 for the fourth win in the season. O'Darien Bassett and Alexander Zyskunov accounted for 19 points each for the winners. Pele Paeley finished with 12 points in the win. Sebastian Adeberg dropped 19 points for Heidelberg as they remained winless at 0-7.

Cuxhaven - Schalke 94-99Brandon Watkins exploded with 41 points for Cuxhaven but it was not enough for hs team to overcome Schalke 04. Melvin Hall scored 21 points and collected 8 rebounds and Schalke secured a 99:94 road victory. Brady Brink had 19 points for the winners. Josh Porter answered with 23 points for the hosts.

Hagen - ETB Wohnbau 92-73Hagen ensured the sixth win in the tournament cruising past ETB Wohnbau 92:73 today. Quentin Pryor nailed 19 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for the winners. Chase Griffin registered 17 points for the second best team in the league at the moment. Ethan Shaw had 15 points for the Essen team in the loss.

Koeln 99ers ink Jamon Gordon - by Manuel SchustKoeln 99ers announced the signing of Jamon Gordon (191-G-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Virginia Tech) today. The 24-year old american signed a 2-month contract including a team option to extend the deal until the end of the season.Gordon started the season with greek club AS Trikalla 2000 and joined Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck in October. After not passing the try-out phase with the Dragons, Gordon soon found a new club. The Koeln 99ers were looking for a typical floor general and want to run Jeremy Hunt (196-G-83, agency: CAA Sports, college: Memphis), who recently was Cologne's starting Point Guard, on the Shooting Guard position now.Gordon spent four years at Virginia Tech and averaged 11.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game in his senior year. He started last season with Washington Wizards and had his first overseas experience with Antalya Buyuksehir Belediye and averaged 10.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists in Turkey.

Skyliners and Daphne Bouzikou part ways - by Manuel SchustShe probably was the only female assistant coach in the whole wide world of men's basketball. Now Daphne Bouzikou was discharged by Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt and is no longer a part of the coaching staff. According to newspaper reports the 39-year old Bouzikou asked for equal payment and was not satisfied to earn less money than her colleagues Klaus Perwas and Engin Gencoglu . A german law for equality rights says that women have to get equal payment for equal work. After complaining about that Bouzikou received a immediate termination of her contract because of several lapses. According to a Skyliners press release Bouzikou's dismall has nothing to do with her complaint for more money. The real reasons were not published though.In reaction to that Bouzikou sued the club and both parties will meet in court in december.

THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS DEFENSE STIFLE TBB TRIER 76 TO 53 - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberTHE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS didnt let any of the last turbulent days concerning ex assistant coach Daphine Bouzikou interfere with their play as they outplayed TBB Trier in the last three quarters to easily beat Them 76 to 53. The game also marked the return of ex Skyliner Maksym Shtein (206-C-80, agency: LimeLight), who looked less like the Ukrainain train of old that had been dominating early for Trier this season, but more like a helpless trolly trying to find daylight in the hostle Skyliner zone. It was the third win in a row for Frankfurt and they climbed back into the playoff zone to position five, while TBB Trier fell back to position 11. It didnt help Trier either that ex NBA player Norman Richardson (196-F/G-77, college: Hofstra), who was averaging 11,1 points per game had to sit out because of a groin pull and the absence of big guy American George Evans (202-F/C-71, agency: Court Side, college: George Mason). 'Norman Richardson (196-F/G-77, college: Hofstra) is a big part of our team, but we cant make any excuses that we lost because he didnt play. We just didnt play well as a team', said Christopher Copeland (203-F-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Colorado) (203-F-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Colorado). TBB Trier really looked helpless for three quarters, finding little room in the zone and usually taking wild shots, which were affected by the superior Frankfurt defense. 'This was one of the best defensive performances that we had this season. It shows when you play defense with effort, you can get good results. Now we just have to continue to play on a consistent level on defense', stressed Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.). TBB Trier didnt do much good, except rebound. 'We shot really bad today. We usually shoot a lot better from outside. We also werent sharp enough on offense as a whole. We also could of played better team defense', said American Christopher Copeland.

It took a while before any team scored as the first few minutes saw some turnovers and the usual feeling out between teams. When the scoring did begin, it was started quickly by THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS. It seemed like possibly Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) had watched some Kobe Bryant (198-G-78) videos early on as he looked like a scoring machine scoring the first seven Frankfurt points. American Derrick Allen scored some free throws and then gave ex teammate Maksym Shtein a nice welcome back as he drove by him making Maksym Shtein look like an old rusty George W Bush on the court and himself like a young, robust and energetic Barack Obama. However this lightening start by Derrick Allen and co didnt impress TBB TRier as American Chris Copeland demonstrated that he has a versatile game of not only making defenders look helpless inside, but that he has a smooth touch from outside. Maksym Shtein then took revenge of his defensive mishap by making a sweet left handed hook shot. TBB Trier tied the score twice at 10 and 12 all as Chris Copeland sunk free throws. TBB Trier managed their first lead 14 to 12 as Copeland scored again. Titus Ivory, who was top Skyliner scorer in Nordlingen and against Antalya was very quiet offensively as it almost looked like he was in hibernation on offense. Copeland then outmuscled Evtimov for an offensive rebound and lay in. TBB Trier led 16 to 15, but Frankfurt closed out the first quarter with Pascal Roller (180-G-76) free throws and fast break hoop by German Max Weber (201-G/F-85) off an Ilian Evtimov steal. Frankfurt led 19 to 16 after one quarter. The biggest hurdle for TBB Trier was the constant fierce defense by Frankfurt. TBB Trier had to work for each pass and they had a lot of difficulty getting any flow in their game. TBB Trier was shooting only 20% from three point land, and had already six turnovers, but had a curious high count of 12 rebounds.

THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS started to pull away from TBB Trier in the second quarter like a smooth boeing jet leaving the ground after a successful take off. Frankfurt simply had more offensive weapons led by Derrick Allen, who scored six points in this phase making a mini fade away shot, a lay up past two Trier defenders an a lay in off a De Mello no look pass. Frankfurt would maintain the lead into halftime as their defense kept playing havoc for TBB Trier and the offense was clicking. German Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) was not at his best, so Murat Didin didnt hesitate by inserting German Max Weber for long periods. American Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) also started to give the fans a early introduction of what would come in the third quarter with solid work under the boards and a hoop in the zone. With little time remaining in the second quarter, Greg Jenkins stole the ball and fed Ilian Evtimov, who went coast to coast for a basket. THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS led 38 to 26 at halftime, but no fans in the Ballsporthalle were bought yet, simply because no lead is secure in the Ballsporthalle until after 40 minutes have been played. TBB Trier continued to look like a disaster from outside shooting only 33% from three point land, turning the ball over 12 times, but only their rebounding seemed solid as they had a 22 to 10 advantage, which was difficult to believe since Frankfurt had all advantages under the boards.

THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS kept their solid play going in the third quarter, and coach Murat Didin had the luxury of going to his bench and even resting a Pascal Roller. Frankfurt went on a seven to three run as now Greg Jenkins really got involved in the offense snatching offensive rebounds and scoring in the paint. Nothing changed with the Frankfurt defense as steals continued to be on the menu. It took American Derek Raivio (190-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) (190-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) (190-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) nearly 25 minutes before he finally got on the board. It was not a good day for Raivio, who wasnt hitting much and was not able to show the point guard playmaking skills that he had learned at Gonzaga University. Greg Jenkins continued to work hard getting by the young 18 year old German Maik Zirbes (205-C-90) (205-C-90) and dunking. Frankfurt now led 47 to 32. Down the stretch, Frankfurt continued to pressure TBB Trier on offense so hard that it seemed like no player really wanted to make that mistake, which would force coach Murat Didin to make the change. Greg Jenkins seemed to have Maik Zirbes all figured out as he swept by him again like a slick hungry Stallion. Frankfurt had extended their lead to 56 to 39 after there quarters. TBB Trier wasnt getting any better, while Frankfurt was ok on offense, but brilliant on defense. TBB Trier continued to be as cold as ice shooting only 22%. Their 16 turnovers was so frightening that at times it seemed like Derek Raivio was just as frightened about his problems with the Frankfurt defense that he was not allowing himself any smiles on this day. TBB Trier continued to control the boards 29 to 18, which kept being the big surprise of this extremely one dimensional game for TBB Trier.

TBB Trier had ten minutes to play, but instead of showing their urgency of coming back, instead it seemed like they had started to give up, as Frankfurt was able to extend their lead even more. The first two Skyliner hoops were scored by guards Adam Emmenecker and Domonik Bahiense De Mello who found a way to get into the zone and then Konrad Wysocki scored on a layup after a nice feed from Evtimov. Ilian Evtimov continued his showcase of passes, when he timed a perfect alleyop to Konrad Wysocki, which was perfect for the ESPN highlight show. 'We never practice allyops in practice, it is just one of those things that happen with the flow of the game. I have done maybe two or three allyop passes since I arrived in Frankfurt', described Iliain Evtimov. Evtimov then gave Derrick Allen a no look pass for two easy points. Frankfurt led 68 to 45 and the game was as good as decided. TBB Trier didnt show much, except for lots of Individual plays and totally neglecting team Basketball. As soon as captain Pascal Roller broke out with a huge wide grin at the foul line, an expression that is seldom seen from him, it was evident that nothing would go wrong in this game for Frankfurt. THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS controlled the game for the last 30 minutes and deserved to win 76 to 53.THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS were led by American Derrick Allen with 18 points and six rebounds. American Greg Jenkins contributed 10 points and 6 rebounds. Captain Pascal Roller chipped in with ten points and one assist. TBB Trier only had their BBL top scorer Christopher Copeland in double figures as he managed 16 points and eight rebounds. The rest of the starting five of Trier managed only 19 points combined.

This was another very important win for THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS as the team finally won a game again in very very comfortable fashion. The biggest asset on this day for Frankfurt was their never die defense that really gave TBB Trier numerous problems all night long. 'We had to stop them and it really showed as they had constant pressure with every pass. Max Weber did a fine job on Chris Copeland and Greg Jenkins also did a great job', commented Derrick Allen. TBB Trier shot only 36% from the field and their 17% three point shooting was just unacceptable. TBB Trier suffered 19 turnovers and only seven assists, which resulted from the exceptional defense on Derek Raivio, who for once looked and played like his young age. Frankfurt did a fine recovery job in the fourth quarter as TBB Trier only outrebounded Frankfurt 35 to 32. 'They are a quality team. They played very smart and were great on defense really doing a good job on rotating,' commented Christopher Copeland. THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS next play in the Euro challenge in Antalya on November ninth and then play in Bamberg on November 16th, when they meet Michael Jordan (183-G-77, agency: Court Side, college: Pennsylvania) again.Derek Raivio (190-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga)

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GUATEMALA

Playoffs have started - by Gianni PascucciThis week started the Clausura playoff of the Liga Metro. The male teams agreed to play the quarterfinals on a single-game basis, this mean that who wins the game advances immediately to the semifinals, that will be, instead, best of 3 games. In the first match of the quarterfinals, Enrique Samayoa (193-F-82) led SAT Markvision to the win, 90-80 over Compusys, led by Heberth Rodriguez (185-G-82). Thanks to this win. SAT will meet in Semifinal the winner of the game between RL and Corpoevisa. The other quarterfinals will be played over the weekend.

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HUNGARY

Pecs could beat Albacomp - by Tamas DeriWithout the injured american guard, Jara Doyne (193-G/F-84, college: Mississippi) the team of Albacomp lost its first game in the season in Pecs on Thursday.

Slanina to play in Spain - by Simas BaranauskasIt has been anounced that Donatas Slanina (192-G-77) will play in Murcia for the remainder of this season. The Lithuanian guard will leave for Spain on Sunday and undergo medical tests. The 31 year old has already played in Spain a couple of seasons ago and was part of Cajasol. Slanina wasn't able to find a team until this moment and trained individualy after not extending his contract with his previous team Asseco Prokom.

Rockets - Clippers 92-83Houston made it against the Clippers moving up on 4-2. Ron Artest notched 23 points registering 8 more boards while Carl Laundry also shined with 20 points and 9 boards. Baron Davis and Chris Kaman netted 23 points apiece for the Clippers, which are still looking for the first joy.

Hornets - Bobcats 89-92Jason Richardson and Raymond Felton paced the Bobcats to second win this season, 2-3. On the other side, the Hornets got the same digits from Chris Paul and Predrag Stojakovic but they faced with a second failure, 3-2.

Knicks - Wizards 114-108New York Knicks improved their score on 3-2 mostly owing to Zach Randolph, who collected 22 points and 13 rebounds. However, the top scorer for the winning side was Jamal Crawford with 23 points. The Wizards got 30 points and 7 boards from Caron Butler.

Bucks - Celtics 89-101Another win for the reigning champion Boston, who now has 5-1. Paul Perce top-scored for the Celtics with 18 points. At the same time he pulled down 10 more rebounds. The Bucks got 20 points and 5 rebounds from Richard Jefferson, but they slipped on 3-3.

Pacers - Cavaliers 107-111The Cavs celebrated fourth time this season thanks to LeBron James, who finished this one with 27 points, 9 boards and 8 assists for 39 minutes. Maurice Williams was behind him scoring 21. Danny Granger was on fire for Indiana draining 33 points (5 triples). Cleveland now has 4-2 while Indiana is on 1-3.

Pistons - Nets 96-103New Jersey Nets handed the first loss of the season to Detroit thanks to fantastic Devin Harris and his 38 points for 38 minutes. It is the second win for the Nets in 4 appearances. Allen Iverson shined for his new team with 24 points and 6 assists.

Heat - Spurs 99-83Miami Heat took it easily against San Antonio mostly owing to amazing Dwayne Wade and his 33 points. Wade also registered 10 rebounds missing only one assist for triple-double. Rookie Michael Beasley also was pretty good adding 20 points and 8 boards. Tim Duncan nailed 22 points and pulled down 11 rebounds for the Spurs. Miami currently has 3-1 while San Antonio remains on just 1 win in 5 games.

Suns - Bulls 83-100Ben Gordon paced the Bulls to third win this season collecting 23 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists for 32 minutes. Derrick Rose also did a great job adding 18 points and 6 assists. Amare Stoudemire had 26 points and 7 boards in defeat. His Phoenix Suns now have 4-2.

Timberwolves - Kings 109-121Sacramento grabbed the second win this season thanks to John Salmons and Kevin Martin, which combined 49 points. Kevin Love had 20 points and 8 boards in Minnesota Timberwolves, but his team needed a way more tonight, 1-4.

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NCAA2

#1 NCAA D2 Findlay Oilers pull off near upset versus #19 NCAA D1 Xavier 76-79!!!! - by Lucius JonesThe top team in the NCAA D2 nation showed why many experts feel the overall talent gap in colllege basketball is quickly closing not only between high and midmajor D1 programs, but also between NCAA D1 and NCAA D2 programs as well. Findlay (OH) almost simulated their huge upset of Ohio St. last season with a near victory at #19 D1 Xavier 76-79. Despite only shooting 24% in the first half, getting out rebounded by 19, and dealing with a controversial intentional foul call late, they were within 3points of another huge win for the powerhouse program. Findlay (OH) made a statement that they should be a force to be reckoned with this season and a serious national title contender.

Pre-Season Player of the Year, Josh Bostic (6'5''-G/F-87) had an outstanding outing finishing with 23 points(22pts in the second half) on 8-16FG and 3-7 3pt and 4-6FT , 2rebounds, 1assist, 4 steals, and made several clutch plays down the stretch. Matched up with projected NBA 1st round Draft Pick, Derrick Brown (6'7''-F-87) (6'7''-F-87) Josh Bostic more than held his own keeping the athletic Brown to a total of 8points in the contest.

Another All American candidate, Morgan Lewis (6'4''-F-87) scored 16points on 6-11FG,1-4 3pt, and 3-3FT, while adding 6rebounds, 1assist, and 1steal. Quite possibly the best leaper in any division of basketball, Morgan Lewis had a highlight dunk over Derrick Brown that was an ESPN moment similar to the Top 10 ESPN Plays of the Week dunks he had versus Ohio St. last year. The Pre-Season All Region and first team All GLIAC performer is definitely a true Hidden Gem.

Lee Roberts (6'7''-F/C-87), the unheralded power forward who plays center for the Oilers also ended in double figures with 10 points on 5-10FG and also contributed 3 rebounds, 3assists, 2steals, and 1 block.

Marcus Parker (5'9''-G-87), the former GLIAC freshman of the year and Frosh All American, added 9points, 8assists, 2rebounds, and 3 steals in the heated contest.

Tyler Evans (6'2''-G-86) rounded out the starting lineup production with a 9points,2rebound, 1assist, 1steal performance.

Libertad wins Game 5 - by Gianni PascucciDominating the first quarter 24-12, Libertad started very well Game 5 of the SuperCup Series. Led by Jamal Nichols (206-F-83, college: De Paul), Sol de America came back two or three times, but at the end Libertad prevailed, 84-83 and now leads series 3-2. Renaldo Johnson (201-F-79, agency: Tank Sports, college: E.Tenn.St.) was the game top performer at 23 points, well assisted by Ricardo Ozuna (185-G/F-82), who added 19. Jamal Nichols signed 23 points in losing effort. Game 6 will be played next week.

Atlas Stal - Sportino I. 79-86Sportino stole a victory from Atlas Stal 79:86 away from home for 3-4 record. Lee Tony led the way with 23 points and Crenshaw Marcus added 22 with 12/12 from the free throw line. Szubarga Krzysztof produced 20 points for the home side.

Znicz J. - En.Czarni 57-87Energa Czarni did not have any difficulties over Znicz in a 57:87 road win. Five players reached double digits for the winners as Straight Jason led all of them with 14 points. Miszczuk Marek and Reynolds Grady had the same number of points in the losing effort.

Borac to strong for Novi Sad - by Zoran PopovicKK Borac Cacak continued with excellent games this season. This time KK Borac Cacak won against KK Novi Sad Panonska Banka 76-71 (23-10, 12-25, 22-14, 19-22). After small advantage of the guests in the first couple of minutes domestic players made break and finished first quarter with +12 for them. But, the second quarter showed completely different situation. KK Borac Cacak players scored only 2 points in the first five minutes of the match, in the same time KK Novi Sad Panonska Banka made serie of 14 points and halftime was finished 35-35. Second half KK Borac Cacak started with much aggressive defence and allowed to guests only 4 points in the first seven minutes of the third quarter. Guests made one more break in the fourth quarter, but excellent Marko Kesic (191-G-85) and Nenad Stefanovic (193-G-85, agency: Interperformances) finished match routinely and KK Borac Cacak took seven won this season.

Krka - Zagorje 88-65Another easy victory by the host teams on Tuesday. Players of head coach Ivan Sunara outgunned Zagroje keeping the top of UPC League with perfect score 6-0. On the other side Zagorje dropped on 1-5. Jure Balazic paced Krka to win collecting 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Richard Shields also was good netting 18 points. Gil Goodrich and Ales Primc combined 45 points in Zagorje.

Epic Misel - TCG Mercator 63-62Epic Misel surprised TCG Mercator at home celebrating the first win in UPC league. Bojan Jovanovc was the key player in his team today pouring in 19 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. Simon Finzgar added 16 points and 6 boards for Mercator, who now has 3-3.

Nova Gorica - Luka Koper 71-70Another tiny victory by the hosts and another surprise. This time it was Nova Gorica, who outsmarted Luka Koper 71-70. Marko Marcetic shined in Nova Gorica leading all the scorers with 25 points. Drazen Bubnic contributed 15 for the loosing side. It was the first joy for the hosts and at the same time the second failure for Luka Koper.

Slovan - Zlatorog 81-76Slovan was better than Zlatorog in derby game jumping on 5-1. Zlatorog is a fourth ranked team now with record 4-2. Dejan Delic paced the host team to win scoring 19 points and pulling down 5 rebounds. Nejc Strnad once again was on fire in Zlatorog netting 28 points, but this time it was not enough for his team.

LEB Gold Round: 8 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsValladolid - Vic 80-85Excellent road win by Vic for 3-5 in LEB Gold. Mattew Kiefer was a key player in his team netting 19 points and pulling down 7 rebounds. Victor Baldo collected 18 points and 8 boards for the hosts while Robert Battle had 2 points less than him, 4-4.

Leon - Leche Rio 85-89Another great victory by the visitors in this round. Brian Cusworth drained 24 while William Phillips had 20 points for the winners. Clarence Gilbert scored 24 points for Leon. Both teams are on 4-4 now.

Burgos - Plus Pujol 95-97Very important road victory for Plus Pujol, who now has pretty good 5-3 in LEB Gold. Burgos is on the same record. Alberto Miguel top-scored for the winning side netting 19 points. Dmitri Flis had 17 while Rafael Hettsheimeier helped with double-double, 15 points and 10 boards. Bosnian big guy Nedzad Sinanovic collected 17 points and 10 rebounds in Burgos.

Gandia Basq. - La Laguna 73-88La Laguna grabbed the fourth win this season while the team from Valencia stays on just one. Jason Detrick and Jose Manuel Coego combined 20 points for La Laguna. Gandia got 21 from Shalawn Miller.

Cl.Rincon - Mallorca 84-735-3 for Clinicas Rincon and 3-5 for Mallorca after this round. Paulo Prestes shined for the hosts adding 18 points and 9 rebounds. Michal Chylinski was behind him with 2 points less. Mallorca got the most from Keep Jason, who scored 17 points having 6 more rebounds.

Alicante - Caceres 93-84As it was expected, Alicante was better than Caceres at home staying on top of LEB Gold undefeated, 8-0. Caceres dropped on 3-5. Once again Jose Urtasun was the best in Alicante adding 16 points and 4 assists. Wayne Simien had 24 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Melilla - Rosalia 73-62As it was expected, Melilla outplayed Rosalia at home 73-62 mostly wing to Victor Cuthbert, who netted 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Rosalia got 12 points and 14 boards from Charles Ramsdell. The hosts currently have 7-1 while visitors stay with just 1 win in 8 games.

Tenerife - La Palma 90-82Tenerife reached sixth win in LEB Gold mostly owing to Eduardo Sanchez and his 18 points for 19 minutes. Antwain Barbour and Jose Rodriguez followed him netting 15 points apiece. Thomas Terrel of La Palma was the best scorer of the game with 23 points. However, it was not enough for his team, who dropped on 3-5.

interview with Nikoloz Tskitishvili - by Robert MayorNikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83, agency: Regeneracom Sports) arrived to Fuenlabrada after several weeks in Georgia, training in Tbilisi with other georgian players seeking their opportunity. Just three days after his arrival in Madrid surprised everyone with a great performance in his return to the ACB against FC Barcelona with 21 points (6 of 7 in three points shots), 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. The player, however, knows that he is much work ahead of us and regrets that 'we have not been able to fight for victory, because we really have been moments where we had our options'. He looks calm but then discovered that he was anxious to show everyone what can bring a lot in this ACB League.

What was Nikoloz Tskitishvili from the end of the season in Teramo (Italy) until this time when he joined Fuenlabrada?At the end of the season in Teramo was clear that this year should be very important to me. I ended up with accurate statistics (10.7 points and 4.6 rebounds) but I think I can do much more and the ACB League is the best place to prove it. Then I was playing with the Georgian National Team the first phase in Eurobasket Division 'B' until September 17 and since then was in Tblisi training and waiting for my opportunity to come to Spain.

What has changed from Nikoloz to be in the NBA from 2002 to now?I went to the NBA without being in either the major or Slovan Ljubljana in Benetton. However, I believe that everything that I have lived through has helped me improve and mature as a player. I was in the ACB with Cajasol, but certainly I think now I am a more complete player and I hope to demonstrate in Fuenlabrada why I was number 5 of the draft.

Talking before the Georgian National Team... Every year there are new talents in your country, besides having nationalized as Tyrone Ellis or Shammond Williams, but instead either in class or in training absolute Georgia just be a power. Why?Yes it is true that we have very good players, some of whom have experience in NBA or ACB, as Vladimir Boisa, Zaza Pachulia or Viktor Sanikidze, or young talents like Giorgi Shermadini (now coaching with Panathinaikos), Nika Metreveli (Siena), or 'spanish players' like Giorgi Sharabidze and Tornike Shengelia (Pamesa 'B'), Konstantine Tomaradze (UB Sabadell) or Beqa Chikviladze (Peixe Galego), but we don't know how to play as a team, either in absolute or in lower grades. With the absolute inexplicably lost against Sweden and we were not the first in group and I know that U18 and U16 National Team also didn't well this summer, although some players are soon to be professional.

Returning to the ACB ... what do you expect to have role in Fuenlabrada?I ask the coach. Help in any way we can: rebound, points, defense ... I want to improve every day and keep learning to become a better player.

Have you followed the ACB League on your stage in Cajasol?Yes of course. Each week watching the results and statistics ...

And the Supermanager ACB, already has a team?(smiles) No, not yet. I know this is a very popular game in Spain, but you have to know a little more competition to do well there.

After your debut with FC Barcelona, what do you think about the expectations you've created?Frankly, although I realize that was a good match for me, I would have changed this debut to get the victory against FC Barcelona. I am here to help the team and surely will be more happy with me if it wins and not only join if I make good individual performances.

You are aware that your last name is difficult to pronounce in Spain ... How do we call it?(smiles) I think I have said all possible ways to pronounce my last name. However, in the United States always called me 'Skita' diminutive of my surname and perhaps it would be a good solution here.

Superleague Round: 6 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket NewsPoltava - Mykolaiv 76-77Mykolaiv had a road victory in one the most interesting Round of Superleague so far. Gilyevych Ivan led the winners with 16 points and Onufriyev Olexiy added 15. Jarutis Rolandas top-scored for the hosts with 20 points.

Azovmash - Khimik 87-89Khimik handed one of the favorites of Superleague Azovmash the first loss. Moreover the team from Yuzhniy had a road 87:89 victory in Mariupol. Bratic Sasa shined with 20 points as three other players nailed 12 each. El-Amin Khalid collected 21 points and 11 assists for the hosts.

Sumykhimpr. - BC Kyiv 70-110BC Kyiv improved to 6-0 record and became the only undefeated team in the Superleague. The favorites had no difficulties in Sumy as they defeated the local team 110:70. Stanojevic Jovo top-scored for the winners with 20 points, while Drozdov Artur posted 19.

Eagles & Sharks Take Spoils - by Andy WebbFriday night's BBL Championship action saw the Newcastle Eagles, who are reigning champions, strengthen their position at the top of the table, whilst the Sheffield Sharks, who are four-time BBL Championship winners, also won to move up to sixth.

At Newcastle's MetroRadio Arena, the Eagles progressed to 6-1 for the season and reached the century mark for the third consecutive game after a 101-80 defeat of the Worthing Thunder, who remain in eleventh place in the league.

The Eagles were led by 18 points from Trey Moore (192-G-75, college: Mississippi St.) on a night when all twelve players on the roster scored and Tafari Toney (203-F/C-86) added a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds.

The hosts turned over an early deficit and took charge after Trey Moore scored 8 points in a 10-2 run towards the end of the first quarter. Two big runs of 10-0 and 11-0 in the second stanza gave them a commanding 56-24 lead and, despite ending the second with a trio of three-pointers, the Thunder would not get close to their table-topping opponents for the remainder of the night.

Meanwhile, at the English Institute of Sport, the Sheffield Sharks beat the PAWS London Capital by 87- 69 behind 22 points from big-man Mathew Gorman (203-C-84, college: Syracuse). The win snapped a run of three straight defeats for the Sharks.

'We've still got a long way to go offensively, as we are not firing just yet as we need to be in this league. Defensively we are doing well.'

Early in the game the Sharks turned a narrow deficit on its head as Gorman hit 5 points in a 10-0 burst that put them 19-10 in front, but the contest wasn't sealed until late in the third quarter when Gorman made a buzzer-beater from the halfway line to cap a 7-0 run that gave the Sharks a 68-47 lead.

The Sharks are in action again this weekend as they travel to the BiG Storage Cheshire Jets on Sunday.

The reigning BBL champions showed no mercy as they hosted the league's newest team, the Worthing Thunder, on Friday night. The Eagles won by 101-80 at the MetroRadio Arena to record their third consecutive 100+ game and strengthen their position at the top of the BBL Championship table.

All twelve of the players on their bench scored, led by Trey Moore's 18 points and a double-double of 10 points and 14 rebounds from Tafari Toney. Guards Aaron Nielson (8) and Will Spragg (6) led the young contingent off the bench. Janis Ivanovskis continued to impress for Worthing as he led all scorers with 25.

The Thunder led early in the game as a pair of Corey Bargeman free-throws saw them up 5-7, only for the Eagles to post a 10-2 burst, which included 6 points for Andrew Bridge, to take a lead that they would not relinquish. A further 10-2 surge to finish the first quarter saw them into a commanding position after Moore scored 8 points.

Newcastle continued to pile on the punishment in the second stanza and responded to a Ryan Patton three- pointer by scoring the next 6 points after back-to-back baskets from Toney. A further 10 consecutive points followed soon afterwards, and a Darius Defoe dunk saw the lead stretch to 45-20. It was soon at its peak of 56-24 after an 11-0 burst, during which Moore scored two baskets and dished out two assists, however an amazing finish to the quarter saw the Thunder hit three consecutive three-pointers, two for Bargeman and one for Patton, to narrow the deficit to 56-33.

A high-scoring third quarter saw the Eagles add to their lead, despite a Lijah Perkins triple that sparked 5 straight points for the visitors and initially narrowed the gap to 63-42. However, the Eagles were soon back on track as Bridge and Moore combined again to put up a 6-0 run for a 71-45 lead. The Eagles led 83-58 by the end of a quarter in which they scored 14 free-throws, as young British guards Nielson and Spragg made their mark.

There was no trouble for the Eagles in the fourth as Jamie Glen came from the bench to score three points and to ensure that he joined the rest of his team mates on the scoresheet.

The Sheffield Sharks put three consecutive defeats behind them as they overcame the PAWS London Capital 87-69 at the English Institute of Sport, moving the Sharks up to sixth place and leaving the Capital rooted to the foot of the BBL Championship table.

Mathew Gorman led the way with 22 points, including 3/5 three-pointers, and he was supported by 14 points from Sherman Rivers. Marcus Knight made 5/8 from long-range to match the top scorer with 22 points for the visitors, whilst debutant Ajou Deng had 7 points and 19 rebounds.

The Londoners struggled to contain Sheffield's big man, Gorman, in the first quarter as he netted 12 points, including 5 in a 10-0 burst that turned a 9-10 deficit on its head and made the score 19-10. A Joel Burns three-pointer capped the first quarter and saw the Sharks take a 22-14 lead. That grew to 32-19 in the second period after another triple from Burns, and a Chris Sanders basket saw the lead reach its first half peak at 41-26, before Knight hit a three-pointer for the visitors on the buzzer.

The teams traded baskets for most of the third period before Gorman hit a late 6 points, which included an old fashioned three-point play and a buzzer-beating shot from the half way line, to make the score 68-47. When a Perry Lawson basket opened the fourth and ignited a 6-0 start, the Sharks had posted 13 straight points over the final break and the Capital could not narrow the gap to within twenty until the final score.

Sheffield's player/coach Atiba Lyons made the following comments in the aftermath,

'We've still got a long way to go offensively, as we are not firing just yet as we need to be in this league. Defensively we are doing well.'

Etzella punish Basket Esch to stay undefeated - by Eurobasket NewsEtzella stayed untamed in the season as they held off the reining champions Basket Esch 71:65 in the last round. It was the sixth straight win for the Ettelbruck team. The defending champions in the meantime suffered the second loss in the tournament. Etzella looked better in the opening stages of the encounter and built a 26:18 lead at the first break. Alicia Gladden (180-F-85, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Florida St.)s effort was not enough for the visitors to race back into the contest. Etzella piled up a massive 19-point lead before the fourth quarter and withheld fierce attempts from Basket Esch to deny it. Katie Donovan (183-F-82) had 25 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Jil Haentges (182-C-90) added 14 points and 15 rebounds for Etzella. Alicia Gladden responded with 27 points and 9 rebounds for Basket Esch as they slipped at 4-2 record. T71 Dudelange stayed in the second place with a hard-fought 70:62 victory over Residence. T71 led by just two points after the starting term however they managed to stretch the margin to as many as 10 points at halftime and never looked back again. Melissa Dennett (188-F-83, college: Colorado St.) ensured 19 points and 12 boards for Dudelange. Carole Sitz (173-G) knocked down 12 points for the winning team. Veronique Kohnen (176-F-82) replied with 16 points for Residence. Contern and Amicale also enjoyed wins in this round. Amicale overcame Racing 84:77 on the road. Lisa Lee (183-F-84, college: Charleston So.) was outstanding with 28 points, 15 boards and 3 steals for the winners. Mae Greenhalgh answered with 29 points for Racing. Contern dealt with Musel Pikes 69:57 away from home. Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, agency: Next Level, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) was unstoppable as she poured in 36 points and collected 13 caroms for Contern. Christine Fisher dropped 19 points for Musel Pikes in the loss.

Kozachka claim the third straight win - by Eurobasket NewsKozachka held off the defending champions Tim-Scuf in the third round of Ukrainian League championship. It was the third consecutive victory for Kozachka and they remained on top of the standings. Kozachka hosted the reigning champions in Zaporozhye and got to a quick start. The home side accounted for 30 points in the first frame and cleared off to a 12-point distance. Tim-Scuf struggled to find the rhythm and Kozachka extended the margin to as many as 19 points at the interval. Charity Egenti (191-C-85, college: Stephen F. Austin) paced the hosts and they left no chance for Tim-Scuf in the reminder of the encounter. She finished with 29 points and 6 rebounds in the debut. Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78, agency: Promotex) contributed 23 points in the win. Yevgeniya Sharovka (170-G-88) knocked down 22 points and collected 8 rebounds for Tim-Scuf. Yana Shkarpeta (176-F-87) had 15 points in the loss. Chaika stayed in the second spot in the ladder as they celebrated the second win in the season. Chaika toppled Olimp-NAEK 83:69 at home. The team from Berdyansk grabbed an 8-point lead after the opening frame and maintained it in the second quarter. Chaika mounted the pressure in the third stanza and cleared off to a massive 14-point before the final quarter. Olimp-NAEK failed to bounce back and lost the third game in a row. Irina Rastorgueva (180-F-76) came up with 25 points and 8 rebounds for Chaika. Viktoria Shmatova (171-G-87) added 18 points in the win. Tetvana Beloziorova (182-F-75) had 21 points for Olimp-NAEK in the loss.